Fatigue in Emergency Center Patients

One of the ways to learn about the symptoms of cancer and the effect of cancer treatment is by rating how severe symptoms are and how they interfere with daily activity. Researchers can also compare these ratings to the levels of certain proteins called cytokines that are found in the blood while the patient is experiencing symptoms. If you agree to take part in this study, you will be asked to complete 2 surveys during your Emergency Center visit. One survey will measure physical and mental symptoms (such as sadness or distress). The other survey will ask you for personal "demographic" information (such as your age and marital status). Completing the questionnaires will take about 10-15 minutes. During the Emergency Center visit, about 1 tablespoon of blood will be drawn for cytokine testing. Research staff will also collect other information from your medical record, clinical information, and lab results. This information may include cancer diagnosis, cancer treatment, performance status (your ability to perform daily activities), disease status, and any medications you are taking at that time. This is an investigational study. About 520 patients will participate in this study. All will be enrolled at M. D. Anderson.